IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1505 - The education of young people is highly prioritized
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
The education of young people is highly prioritized in many countries. However, educating adults who cannot write or read is even more important, and governments should spend more money on this.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Disagreement]
The imperative nature of prioritising education for young people is universally acknowledged, with countries investing significant resources in this endeavour. While educating adults who lack basic literacy skills is important, diverting more financial resources towards this cause may not be the most effective strategy. In this essay, I will argue against the notion that 'educating adult illiterate is more important and governments should allocate additional funds to the education of adults who cannot read or write'.
Primarily, investing in the education of young people is a strategic approach that addresses the root of the issue. By providing quality education during the formative years, societies can empower individuals with foundational skills that extend into adulthood. This proactive approach not only prevents the occurrence of illiteracy in the first place but also equips individuals with the capacity to pursue further learning independently. For instance, countries with robust primary education systems often witness lower rates of adult illiteracy due to the early cultivation of essential skills.
Furthermore, the allocation of resources should consider the broader impact on societal development. Concentrating solely on adult education may neglect the potential contributions of educated youth to the overall progress of a nation. A well-educated and skilled workforce emerging from a comprehensive education system can drive economic growth, technological innovation, and social development. By fostering a literate and skilled younger generation, governments lay the foundation for sustainable progress across various sectors.
In conclusion, while addressing adult illiteracy is important, enhancing the education of young people remains a strategic investment that yields multifaceted benefits for society. The allocation of resources that prioritises comprehensive education during the early years ensures a more sustainable and impactful approach to societal development, and therefore adult education should never get more priority in terms of efforts, resources and funds from the state.
Model Answer 2: [Agreement]
In many countries, substantial resources are allocated to educating young people, ensuring they acquire essential skills for the future. However, I strongly agree that prioritising adult literacy is even more crucial, as it has immediate and far-reaching benefits for individuals, economies, and societies. This is why the government should dedicate more funding to addressing adult illiteracy.
Firstly, adult literacy significantly enhances economic productivity and reduces poverty. Many illiterate adults struggle to find stable employment due to their inability to read instructions, write applications, or perform basic calculations. This lack of fundamental skills limits their earning potential and, in turn, perpetuates cycles of poverty. By investing in adult education, governments can equip individuals with the skills necessary to secure better-paying jobs, thereby reducing dependency on social welfare programmes and stimulating economic growth. For instance, countries that have implemented large-scale literacy campaigns, such as Cuba and South Korea, have witnessed remarkable improvements in employment rates and economic stability.
Secondly, educating adults fosters a more informed and engaged society. Literacy is essential for understanding legal rights, accessing healthcare information, and making informed decisions in daily life. Illiterate adults often struggle to comprehend medical prescriptions, legal documents, or financial statements, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and poor health outcomes. Moreover, literacy empowers individuals to participate in civic activities, such as voting and community engagement, strengthening democratic processes. For example, research has shown that literate populations tend to have higher voter turnout and greater involvement in social initiatives.
In conclusion, while the education of young people remains important, addressing adult illiteracy should be an even higher priority. Investing in adult education enhances economic prosperity, promotes social inclusion, and empowers individuals to lead healthier, more independent lives.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
The education of young people is highly prioritized in many countries. However, educating adults who cannot write or read is even more important, and governments should spend more money on this.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Essay Type: Opinion Essay (Agree/Disagree)
The main question of this IELTS Essay:
Should governments allocate more resources to adult literacy instead of focusing on the education of young people?
Arguments in favour of prioritising youth education:
Long-term benefits for society:
Educating children ensures that future generations are well-equipped with essential skills, reducing illiteracy rates in the long run. A well-educated youth population leads to a more informed and capable society.
Better learning capabilities in youth:
Children have a greater capacity to absorb and retain knowledge. Their ability to learn new skills, adapt to technological advancements, and apply education effectively is much higher than that of adults.
Economic growth and national progress:
Countries that have prioritised youth education, such as Finland and Singapore, have seen remarkable economic and technological advancements. Educated young people contribute to innovation and economic stability.
Limited effectiveness of adult literacy programmes:
Many adults struggle to learn due to ingrained habits, time constraints, and responsibilities. Unlike children, they may find it difficult to dedicate time to structured learning, reducing the effectiveness of such initiatives.
Preventing future illiteracy:
Investing in children's education ensures that they do not grow up to face literacy challenges. This breaks the cycle of illiteracy and reduces the need for future adult education programmes.
Arguments in favour of prioritising adult education:
Immediate impact on society:
Educating illiterate adults can quickly improve their employability and economic conditions. This leads to increased household incomes, reduced poverty, and economic development.
Empowerment and self-sufficiency:
Literacy enables adults to understand legal rights, access healthcare information, and participate in civic activities like voting. This creates a more informed and empowered society.
Breaking the cycle of poverty:
Educated parents are more likely to prioritise their children's education, ensuring that future generations do not suffer from illiteracy. This contributes to long-term educational progress.
Workforce productivity:
Many industries suffer from a lack of skilled workers. Educating adults equips them with essential reading and writing skills, enhancing workplace productivity and efficiency.
Social inclusion and equality:
Literacy provides adults with access to better opportunities, reducing social inequality. It allows them to integrate into modern society, find employment, and contribute effectively.
Model Answer 3: [Disagreement]
Some people opine that educating illiterate adults is more important than teaching young learners. While educating illiterate adults is undeniably important, I disagree with the notion that it should take precedence over the education of young people. I believe, governments should focus more on ensuring that children receive quality education, as this approach yields long-term benefits for both individuals and society.
Firstly, investing in youth education guarantees a more sustainable and prosperous future. Young learners are at a stage where they can absorb knowledge more effectively and develop critical thinking skills that will shape their careers and contributions to society. By prioritising education for children, governments ensure that future generations are equipped with the necessary skills to participate in a competitive global economy. For example, countries that have heavily invested in youth education, such as Finland and Singapore, have consistently ranked among the top in economic performance and innovation. If resources were diverted away from children’s education to focus on adult literacy, it could undermine national progress in the long run.
Secondly, adult literacy programmes often yield limited results compared to formal childhood education. Many illiterate adults face challenges in learning new skills due to ingrained habits, time constraints, and the responsibilities of work and family. Even when provided with educational opportunities, retention rates for adult learners tend to be low. In contrast, children who receive early education build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. For instance, studies have shown that countries with a high literacy rate among children experience far lower levels of adult illiteracy over time, proving that a strong education system at a young age is the best long-term solution.
In conclusion, while helping illiterate adults is important, prioritising the education of young people is far more beneficial in the long run. By focusing on providing quality schooling for children, governments can ensure that future generations do not face the same literacy challenges, ultimately creating a more educated and self-sufficient society.
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